Mohammed Shami’s India return has already been a big talking point, but Dinesh Karthik’s latest comments could make things even more difficult for the veteran pacer.
India won the ODI series against West Indies 2-1, but their bowling attack came under serious backlash after the WI chased down 352 in the third ODI. With India struggling to find enough wicket taking options, many fans have questioned why an experienced bowler like Shami is not being considered.
Shami has continued to perform in domestic cricket, but he has not played international cricket since 2025.
His fitness and injuries have affected his chances, while India have also started giving opportunities to younger pacers.
Dinesh Karthik believes India have already moved on from Shami. When asked whether the veteran pacer should be considered again, the former India wicketkeeper said there are other options available and added, There is no point in going back, despite admitting that Shami has bowled very well.
That comment comes at an interesting time. India have Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna among their established options, while Gurnoor Brar, Anshul Kamboj and Aquib Nabi are also getting opportunities.
But the third ODI against West Indies showed that India’s bowling attack still has plenty of questions to answer.
The biggest question now is whether India can really afford to move on from Shami when the 2027 World Cup is approaching.
If the current bowling options continue to struggle, his experience could become difficult to ignore.
Dinesh Karthik has a different view when it comes to Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. He believes the two veterans should continue playing for India, highlighting their importance to the team and ODI cricket.
For Shami, though, the message is clear. Even after strong domestic performances and India’s recent bowling concerns, the door for his India return does not appear to be getting any wider.
